Hume Nurture by Leader Associated Newspapers Pty Ltd

Parenting guide for HUME

Tips for getting your baby off to a good night’s sleep

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Family health ● Making time for dad to bond ● Fitness for new mums

NURTURE: A PARENTING GUIDE TO HUME 1

We give children a great start to school with a dynamic Prep program.

Contact School Registrar - Mrs Dawn Gordon 9305 7900

p C p S t

HUME ANGLICAN GRAMMAR An Anglican Community School Hume Anglican Grammar is a community school established to provide additional choice for quality independent education in Craigieburn and regional communities.The School will grow to provide all classes Prep to Year 12 by 2012. Initially located on the St Peter’s Anglican Church site in Dorchester Street, Craigieburn, the school will relocate to its new site nearby in 2010.

OUR DISTINCTIVES • LOW FEE INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN SCHOOL • DEDICATED, HIGHLY QUALIFIED STAFF • ENROLMENT OPEN TO FAMILIES OF ALL FAITH PERSPECTIVES • CURRICULUM AT ALL LEVELS INFORMED BY THE VICTORIAN ESSENTIAL LEARNING STANDARDS (VELS) • STRONG MIDDLE YEARS SECONDARY PROGRAM • STUDENT LEADERSHIP AND PEER MEDIATION • SUPPORTIVE PASTORAL CARE • EXPANDING CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS • STRONG MUSIC/DRAMA PROGRAMS • ACTIVE PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT • A UNIQUE AND DISTINCTIVE SCHOOL UNIFORM • A SCHOOL WHICH NURTURES STUDENTS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH HOME • BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE

PREP TO YEAR 10 IN 2010, NOW ENROLLING FOR 2010 AND BEYOND 42SPVD378551F/N/WS/9

www.humegrammar.vic.edu.au

Somerton Road Medical Centre

Open 7 days

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NURTURE: A PARENTING GUIDE TO HUME

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A word from the editor WELCOME to Nurture, your local guide to parenting in Hume. Family life is important in Hume. Its residents are 67 per cent more likely to be parents of a child aged 3 to 5 years*, while the number of couples raising young children has been steady in Hume since 2001**. And families in this area are larger than average with 13 per cent of people living with three or more children***. This focus on family life means the need for family friendly businesses and parenting

advice in the area has also risen. Which is why Leader Community Newspapers has chosen your neighbourhood to launch its Nurture booklet. Mums and dads will find this easy-to-use booklet contains useful parenting tips for raising newborns and toddlers. So we hope you enjoy reading and using Nurture. Toni Hetherington editor-in-chief

inside pg 6

• Sleep tips

• Common illnesses pg 9 • First-time dads • Budget solutions • Sound of music • Green options

pg 12

pg 13 pg 17

pg 19

• Fussy eaters

* and *** 2006 Census figures ** Roy Morgan Research Oct 06-Sept 08

pg 11

pg 22

• Keeping fit

Editorial written by Kate Ashley-Griffiths; Advertising inquiries: Karen Chandler 9875 8346; Publisher: Sylvia Bradshaw; Published by Leader Associated Newspapers PTY LTD A.B.N. 34 004 337 446

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Using SMS to send your baby into a blissful sleep

Kate Ashley-Griffiths AS I sit down to write, my six-month-old baby Mitchell is giving me his ‘‘sleep cues’’. He’s been happily playing with toys on the floor but now he’s becoming grizzly and his movements are jerky. It’s time to sleep. Knowing how to read your baby’s tired signs – and acting on them – is one of the best ways to develop good settling techniques early on. But it takes time to develop the skill and sometimes it’s not so simple. Newborn babies, in particular, are often fussy and irritable and many parents find themselves pacing the halls at night trying to soothe a screaming infant. Paediatrician Dr Harry Zehnwirth said one of the biggest challenges was coping with a baby that cried constantly for long periods. His sleep-deprived patients inspired him to create Sounds for Silence, a baby CD with a

difference. Forget traditional lullabies, this CD contains sounds inspired by what a baby hears in the womb – the thump of a heart, gurgle of a stomach, rush of blood pumping through veins and even the muffled whine of a vacuum cleaner. ‘‘For many years I was looking at ways to settle babies because it can be a pretty big challenge to have a baby cry constantly for long periods,’’ he said. ‘‘The impact on good mums and dads defies description. It erodes confidence and the desire to sleep becomes an obsession.’’ Dr Zehnwirth experimented with Beethoven and lullabies but found continuous low-pitched noises were more effective in soothing young babies. ‘‘That’s what babies are accustomed to in the womb because the sound is coming through a fluid environment – like listening to sounds while holding your head under water,’’ he said. Dr Zehnwirth advocates an ‘‘SMS method’’ for settling – security, movement and sounds. He said sounds were particularly effective for

soothing very young infants (up to four months) and swaddling also helped younger babies feel secure. After six months, when babies can no longer be wrapped, introduce a security object (such as a small wrap) that baby can cuddle when going to sleep. Movement, such as rocking or patting, is also a good way to settle an irritable baby and, if you’re really desperate, a walk in the pram or ride in the car can do the trick. But it is a good habit to try to put baby to bed awake so he learns to settle himself. Dr Zehnwirth said it was normal for a baby to wake regularly throughout the night, the key was to train them to re-settle themselves. ‘‘One of the mistakes parents make is they get baby off to sleep before they’re in the cot,’’ he said. ‘‘The baby becomes accustomed to all sorts of props, such as being breastfed to sleep by mum, so when they wake at 2am they want all that again. ‘‘It’s better to get into a pattern and use some familiar cues such as playing some soft music, having a bath or a massage before baby goes to bed awake.’’ Dr Zehnwirth said a healthy baby should be able to sleep through the night without needing a feed by about six months. If baby is waking, try leaving him to cry for a couple of minutes instead of rushing in to the room. Often he will re-settle, or learn to re-settle without help from mum or dad. If not, try alternating parents to re-settle (dad goes in first). Talk softly to baby to reassure or gently roll to one side and pat the back. ‘‘Babies love routine and familiarity, if they know what’s going on it helps them to feel more secure,’’ Dr Zehnwirth said. ‘‘One of the things that stops parents letting their child cry is a sense of guilt about being cruel or depriving their baby but if you are looking at a sleep deprivation situation that can end up being worse,’’ he said. ‘‘Usually there is short pain for maximum gain.’’

10 top sleep tips KNOX-based author, lactation consultant and infant massage instructor, Pinky McKay, offers these tips for a better night’s sleep for baby (pinkymckay.com.au) 1. Read the signs: Put baby to bed as soon as he/she shows sleepy signs such as yawning, making “jerky” movements and fussing. 2. Introduce bedtime rituals: Give a warm relaxation bath just before bedtime. 3. Massage: Research has shown that infants and toddlers who are massaged for 15 minutes before bed are likely to fall asleep more easily. 4. Soothing sounds: The calming, repetitive sounds of traditional lullabies can be soothing. 5. Wrapping: Provide a sense of security by swaddling your newborn – wrapping firmly in a gauze or muslin sheet in summer or a soft shawl in winter. 6. Cut caffeine: If you are breastfeeding, caffeine can cause restlessness. 7. Daytime feeds: If your baby sleeps more than four hours between feeds during the day, try gently unwrapping him and offering a feed, then he might save his longer sleep for night. 8. Try a top up feed: Whatever time your baby was last fed, gently offer a feed just before you go to bed yourself (he will suck in his sleep) and, with luck, his longer sleep may coincide with yours. 9. Distinguish day from night: Teach baby the difference between night and day by keeping lights low and attending quietly during night feeds. Save play and chatter for daytime. 10. Do not disturb: Avoid waking baby during night feeds by changing the nappy either before or half way through a feed, not at the end when baby is “groggy” and full.

nurture

Using SMS to send your baby into a blissful sleep

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Aitken College is an established independent Preparatory to Year 12 co-educational Uniting Church school providing a quality education in a caring and supportive learning community, led by enthusiastic and dedicated staff. A Uniting Church School We provide Strong Pastoral Care, Religious and Values Education, VCE and VCAL, Peer Support and Leadership Opportunities, Educational and Welfare Support. Facilities include: Science, Information Technology, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Gymnasium and Library. Enrolment information is available from the College Registrar on

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Illnesses to look out for in kids HAVING a sick child can be a frightening experience at any time but for new parents it can be particularly harrowing. Royal Children’s Hospital paediatrician Dr Mike Starr explains the five most common conditions in children: Eczema is a skin condition where the affected area is dry, red, and itchy and can become cracked, weepy and then scab over. ‘‘The key is to avoid the main triggers, which are overheating and skin irritants such as prickly clothing, soaps and detergents,’’ Dr Starr said. ‘‘Keep the skin well moisturised and reduce itching by using wet dressings and cool compresses.’’ Asthma is caused by narrowing of the small air passages in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe and causing wheezing and coughing. About one in four children will have wheezing some time during childhood. Dr Starr said things such as colds, exercise, pets or pollen triggered attacks and asthma could usually be controlled with medication. Bronchiolitis is a chest infection that affects young children, particularly babies under 12 months. Medicines do not usually help but babies need plenty of rest and small feeds more often,

so they don’t get too tired or dehydrated. The illness begins as a cold, but on the second or third day the baby begins to cough, and breathing becomes fast and wheezy. Croup is a viral infection of the throat that causes swelling of the voice box and windpipe and breathing difficulties. It often begins like a normal cold followed by a harsh, barking cough. There is no way to prevent croup and the condition can worsen quickly. Parents should seek immediate medical treatment if a child has problems breathing. During a mild attack (when the child has the barking cough but not difficult breathing) try to keep the child calm and give paracetamol if feverish and irritable. Call an ambulance if your child looks very sick and becomes pale and drowsy or their lips are blue. Ear infections can be extremely painful. They are more common in babies and small children because the tubes that connect the middle ear to the throat are still small, making it easier for germs to reach the middle ear from the nose and throat during head colds. » Visit rch.org.au/kidsinfo for more information on common childhood conditions.

NURTURE: A PARENTING GUIDE TO HUME 9

Family Relationship Centre now open in Broadmeadows Parents, children, grandparents and couples living in the Hume area now have a central contact point for information and advice on improving relationships within their family. The new Family Relationship Centre offers a range of professional and confidential services to help separating couples and families that are separated.

Your Centre can help by: • Strengthening family relationships • Helping families stay together • Assisting families through separation

Enquiries will be treated confidentially. These services are an important part of the Australian Government’s Family Law Reforms. For additional information visit www.australia.gov.au/familyrelati onships or call the Family Relationship Advice Line on 1800 050 321

1100 Pascoe Vale Road, Broadmeadows. Telephone 9351 3700. Authorised by the Australian Government, Capital Hill, Canberra 10

NURTURE: A PARENTING GUIDE TO HUME

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Making time for dad to bond IT might sound like a cliche, but nothing can truly prepare you for becoming a father for the first time. The birth is usually an incredible experience full of love and wonder. But it doesn’t take long for the realities of a baby to set in and, for many men, adjusting to parenthood can be one of the most challenging times of their lives. Psychologist Warren Cann, executive director of Victoria’s Parenting Research Centre, said men could find it stressful suddenly being responsible for supporting a family and learning how to care for a child. ‘‘There is still a good understanding in the community of what motherhood is, but the standard template for fatherhood is a lot less clear,’’ Mr Cann said. He said many men struggled to define their role as fathers, which now included more hands-on parenting as well as being the primary breadwinner. ‘‘Some men become very affected by the heightened sense of responsibility and may redouble their efforts to make sure their family is secure and that can be misinterpreted by their partner,’’ he said.

‘‘It’s important to put expectations on the table and discuss them – there’s no right or wrong way but couples need to work together.’’ Mr Cann said it was typical for a woman to be off work for at least some months after the birth so she had more chance to spend time with her baby and develop confidence in her new role. Fathers, on the other hand, would often be back at work within weeks or even days of the birth. ‘‘Fathers will tend to do the playing and that becomes their focus,’’ he said. But Mr Cann said it was also important for dads to spend time alone caring for their child, even just for short periods. This allowed them to become more familiar with routine needs and better equip them to handle changes as the child developed. There are a growing number of services for fathers, such as playgroups for dads or parenting courses at community health centres. » The Northern Dads Playgroup meets in members’ homes from 10.30am on Fridays. Details: Dan on 0422 050 689 or email weemankelsey@hotmail.com

TULLAMARINE SWIMMING SCHOOL PRE-SCHOOLERS LESSONS MONDAY TO THURSDAY 9.00am - 3.30pm Only 4 children in the pool. Shallow end and deep end. Cost: $14.00 per lesson. Call Sandra on 9338 9330 for bookings and enquiries Email : samswim@bigpond.com 7 Coventry Street, Tullamarine. Vic 3043 42SPVD355564F/N/WS/9

NURTURE: A PARENTING GUIDE TO HUME 11

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Simple ways to beat budget blues RAISING a family is an expensive exercise and with fluctuating petrol prices and rising grocery bills, balancing a household budget seems tougher than ever. But wise shoppers can save hundreds of dollars a year just by changing habits, according to consumer advocacy group Choice. Choice spokeswoman Elise Davidson said a bit of organisation and good oldfashioned thriftiness were the keys to saving money on essentials. ‘‘Make a list when you go shopping and try to make your own food instead of buying for convenience – for example make your own pasta sauce using a tin of tomatoes and some herbs from the garden instead of paying up to $4 for a bottle of ready-made pasta sauce,’’ she said. ‘‘Make your own soups and use a slow cooker to turn inexpensive cuts of meat into hearty stews or cook a pot roast.’’

Don’t be afraid to challenge your bank if you are being slugged excessive fees

Ms Davidson said another simple way to save was to buy petrol on a Tuesday, when surveys consistently showed Melbourne petrol prices were at their cheapest for the week. Don’t be afraid to challenge your bank if you are being slugged excessive fees. Some charge up to $50 if you pay your credit card a day late or fail to have sufficient funds in your account when you make a withdrawal but it’s always worth asking for penalties to be reversed. Another way to save is to shop around if you have been with the same phone or internet provider for some time. Ms Davidson said it also paid to check current deals being offered by your provider as they didn’t always let existing customers know when they were offering a better plan. ‘‘We’ve also found that switching to a completely new provider for a bundled package can be a good move,’’ she said. When it comes to clothes, shoes, manchester and household goods try shopping at factory outlets. You’ll find retail prices can be slashed by up to 50 per cent or even more. Or go online to hunt out good quality new and used bargains on sites such as eBay. Don’t splurge on your baby bonus. If you can, use the money to get in front on your mortgage.

• Multi Culture and Multi Faith celebrations throughout the year, preparing children to belong to the global community • Ages 3 months to school age inclusive.

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NURTURE: A PARENTING GUIDE TO HUME

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Westmeadows Centre opening April 09 • Virtues Character Development based programming for all ages • Sessional 3 & 4 year old Kindergarten program, providing school readiness. • Privately owned and managed

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Classical music hits a positive note in pregnancy MUSIC really can soothe the soul. Research has found that pregnant women who listen to uplifting music not only have lower stress levels, but they can actually create longterm health benefits for their unborn child. According to Dr Craig Hassed, a senior lecturer with Monash University’s Department of General Practice, listening to classical music, such as Mozart, can reduce the risk of children developing serious mental health problems later in life. ‘‘Maternal stress has a significant effect on childhood development in the uterus and anything that helps to ease it will help to improve fetal development,’’ he said. Dr Hassed said stress chemicals created by the mother could cross the placenta. In severe cases, these chemicals can inhibit a baby’s development and increase the risk of health problems such as high blood pressure and even schizophrenia in later life. He said classical or very harmonious music were the best choices to induce a ‘‘relaxation response’’ in expectant mums. Ancient meditative chants are also effective. But other types of music with aggressive lyrics and rapid tempo can actually increase stress in the body, even if the person listening likes it. Toddlers who play with classical music in the

background are less likely to engage in aggressive behaviour. Studies also found that young children who listened to Mozart had better focus during lessons and could improve their learning outcomes. There is also some evidence that premature babies need less oxygen, grow faster and ultimately spend less time in hospital if they are exposed to music. Some mothers find that playing classical music helps their young baby to focus better at feeding times and it provides soothing background music during baby massage. ‘‘There seems to be something very innate and natural about certain forms of music,’’ Dr Hassed said. ‘‘We need to feed the mind as much as the physical body.’’

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HUME CITY COUNCIL PRESENTS

PROGRAMS FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD !

Learn to Swim teaches your child basic water safety skills, while environment. The program caters for all ages and abilities from infant aquatics to school aged children.

Offered at our three leisure centres in Broadmeadows, Craigieburn and Sunbury Classes run weekdays and weekends to suit all schedules

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HUME CITY COUNCIL PRESENTS

PROGRAMS FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD !

Learn to Swim teaches your child basic water safety skills, while environment. The program caters for all ages and abilities from infant aquatics to school aged children.

Offered at our three leisure centres in Broadmeadows, Craigieburn and Sunbury Classes run weekdays and weekends to suit all schedules

' '

& Cnr Pearcedale Parade & Dimboola Road 9309 8500

' Craigieburn Road 9308 2022

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Resident party character 10-30 children per party Fully trained hostess 15+ children - 2 or 3 hosts All themed invitations supplied Birthday child recieves a themed present and birthday card Games, Music and Prizes Your choice of Hamburger, Cheeseburger or Nuggets All with fries Ice cream birthday cake Free coffee and tea for parents Face painting Photo CD-DVD optional extra

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Green approach to parenting BECOMING a parent can certainly heighten environmental awareness. All those nappies, piles of washing, lights on at all hours and mountains of plastic toys are constant reminders of the impact just one family makes on the environment. Not to mention the increased awareness of the importance of protecting the planet for future generations. According to Mark Mann, author of The Little Green Guide and editor of ecodirectory, an online guide to sustainable living, we must change habits now if our children are to inherit a healthy and sustainable planet. But he says the good news is there are some simple ways for families to ‘‘go green’’. Switching to cloth nappies and breastfeeding

Australians use more than 800 million disposable nappies a year and they can take more than 500 years to break down in landﬁll

are the most important factors for families wanting to significantly reduce their environmental impact, according to Mr Mann. ‘‘Australians use more than 800 million disposable nappies a year and they can take more than 500 years to break down in landfill,’’ he said. ‘‘Modern fitted cloth nappies are better for the environment and cheaper than disposables.’’ Mr Mann said breastfeeding was also environmentally sound. Not only is it better for babies, it has the added bonus of avoiding the need for plastic bottles, sterilisation equipment and production and packaging of powdered milk. ‘‘I realise not everyone can breastfeed, but if you can it is one of the single best things you can do,’’ he said. Other ways to conserve energy include using rechargeable batteries in toys, recycling nursery items, joining a toy library and using organic fruit and vegetables instead of commercial baby food. Try using natural cleaners, such as white vinegar, bicarb soda and lemon juice, or buy environmentally-friendly products. » For more tips go to ecodirectory.com.au

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ESSENDON Phone: 9325 4244 18

NURTURE: A PARENTING GUIDE TO HUME

If you have missed out on getting your child into 3 year old Kinder, come and join our Kinder Play Program enjoy painting, crafts and playdough with a full qualified Kinder teacher. Phone enquiries: 9325 4244

MILL PARK Phone: 9438 3454

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Learning begins straight after birth or as some scientists believe, in the womb. At Gymbaroo, parents take an active role in their childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development learning why specific activities are important stepping stones to academic, social and sporting success. We have classes for babies, toddlers and kinder children as well as a School Readiness Program to give your child the best possible start at school. Gymbaroo aims to make learning a pleasure, not a nightmare Gymbaroo is designed to stimulate co-ordination and concentration. Utilising specialised equipment and expert teaching. Experience a sense of FUN and achievement. Book your place NOW from the GymbaROO advertisement below.

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Healthy options for fussy eaters YOUNGSTERS can be frustratingly fussy eaters but there are some simple ways to encourage healthier eating. Try ‘‘hiding’’ fresh vegetables in meals. Add brown lentils and finely grated zucchini and carrot to pasta sauce, use vegetables such as creamed corn or spinach in bacon and cheese muffins or offer pureed pumpkin soup in a cup instead of a bowl. Other easy options include baked beans or hummus, a healthy dip derived from chickpeas. Offer carrot, celery and cucumber sticks instead of biscuits, or add a banana or fresh berries to milk and blend for a yummy smoothie.

According to Suzy Honisett, manager of the Kids – Go For Your Life program, which works through schools and childcare centres to promote healthy eating and exercise, it is not possible to force children to eat more fresh fruit and vegetables. But, Dr Honisett said, one of the best ways parents could encourage healthier habits was by ensuring they enjoyed a variety of fruit and vegetables themselves. » About 20 per cent of childcare centres and kindergartens in Hume and 31 per cent of primary schools have Kids - Go For Your Life programs. Details: Phone 1300 739 899.

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www.pelicanchildcare.com.au

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The studio’s specialise in: • Kindy dance from 2 years of age • Jazz/Funk • Tap • Hip Hop • Musical theatre • Adults from Beginners to Advanced levels Join Fusionone for fitness and fun combined: • Improve co-ordination • Meet new friends • Loose weight • Become a professional dancer! Call Carly on 0412 123 700 to find out more or visit our website: www.fusionone.com.au

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Delivering the start they deserve. A school for the whole family even Mum and Dad. At Overnewton, we love our families to take part in all aspects of the College – it’s just like an Open Day every day of the week.Through our Family Contribution Scheme you will see mums and dads involved in all aspects of the College and showing their commitment to their children’s education. Come and see for yourself what makes us different.

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Keilor Campus 2-30 Overnewton Rd Keilor 3036.Taylors Lakes Campus 27-57 Robertsons Rd Taylors Lakes 3038. www.overnewton.vic.edu.au NURTURE: A PARENTING GUIDE TO HUME 21

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Exercise is important during pregnancy and beyond exercise could help busy Melbourne mums get fit and enjoy a happier and healthier life. Ms Gabriel was one of several physiotherapists who founded Preggi Bellies almost 12 years ago to offer safe and stimulating exercise for pregnant women. ‘‘We combine cardiovascular work with toning to increase fitness and develop muscular strength,’’ she said. ‘‘We fine tune every exercise and work closely with doctors and obstetricians so we can accommodate most complications associated with pregnancy, such as pelvis problems, varicose veins and high blood pressure.’’ Ms Gabriel said it was important to be fit during pregnancy to prepare for the physical demands of childbirth.

‘‘The worst thing you can do in pregnancy is to do nothing,’’ she said. ‘‘Pregnancy really attacks your body, it weakens muscles, changes your core, loosens your pelvis, and your veins and pelvic floor are never the same afterwards. Exercise helps to counter all that. ‘‘You are also far better equipped to cope with the stress of childbirth, recover faster and have far less medical intervention. You tend to gain less weight and sleep better.’’ Ms Gabriel said regular post natal exercise helped women return to a pre-pregnant shape, but there should be no pressure to lose weight rapidly. Women suffering post natal depression can also benefit from exercise because it produces feelgood endorphins in the body.

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Craigieburn Shop 2 Craigieburn Plaza 93057555 Broadmeadows Shop 46G Broadmeadows Shopping Centre 93096200 Airport West Shop 1116 Airport West Shopping Centre 93356186 Keilor Park 40 Keilor Park Drive 93367139 www.fergusonplarre.com.au

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CELEBRITY mums make it look easy. But the reality of losing weight and regaining fitness after pregnancy and birth is nothing like those glossy images. According to Lauren Gabriel, co-director of Preggi Bellies, which runs exercise classes for pregnant and post natal women, it takes time to restore the body. ‘‘We say it took nine months to get there and it will take 12 months to get back,’’ she said. Ms Gabriel said the only way famous women could regain their shape so quickly was to ‘‘starve themselves, kill themselves at the gym and have surgery’’ – not to mention more than a little help from an expensive support team of trainers, chefs and nannies. But, she said, a little dedication to some simple

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There is a way to get the most of out of parenting. Speak to any parent and the answer is invariably the same. The joy of starting a family does put our pre-parenting lives into perspective. You quickly come to the realisation that the thrill of being a mum or dad to your new bundle of joy has changed your life forever. Not too dissimilar to our pre-parenting lives, it is not all plain sailing and there are challenges with raising your child and the undeniable fact that you are directly responsible for how you deal with these issues. Coping with sleepless nights, dealing with fussy eaters, challenging toddler behaviour, pressures of reduced income or returning to work, juggling with the personal, family and couple balance, and the list goes on. In addition to all of that the extended family can add to parenting pressures, such as well meaning grandparents and friends advising you how to best to deal with these issues or conversely, the lack of extended family support. It is reassuring to know today that there are a number of resources available to new parents to assist with the challenges of raising children. An organisation that has been there for the past 90 years and considered by many as trusted advisors in early parenting is Tweddle. Tweddle is a place where parents can go for straight forward, supportive, clear and relevant advice. This advice is supported by current research and years and years of specialist experience working with young families. Over the past 90 years, society has changed and the tools required to deal with early parenting have also, Tweddle has grown and been responsive to research over this time. Who knows, chances are that perhaps our parents or grandparents went to Tweddle! 42SPV375206F/JL9

NURTURE: A PARENTING GUIDE TO HUME

Tweddle is recognised as an expert in providing a range of child and family services assisting parents with young children up to four years of age by offering support and strategies to confidently manage the challenges of early parenting.

• Community Based Day Stay Programs across six municipalities around Victoria designed to provide working families with support and education. Available for parents having difficulties with babies up to 12 months of age

Their programs are designed to provide effective, practical help that is tailored to your family’s needs.

• Books and Multimedia Resources such as books and DVDs. For a complete list go to the website at www.tweddle.org.au

The programs include: • Tweddle@Home which is a newly introduced in-home parenting support service providing convenient, quick access to one on one support and advice in the privacy of your own home. A fee for service offering a home visit, supporting materials and a telephone follow up. • Psychology Service which is also a newly introduced service offering to assist the needs of parents with mood and anxiety management, debriefing after childbirth, adjusting to parenting, establishing relationships with their child, self esteem and assertiveness and overcoming depression, grief, loss and family conflict • Residential Programs offering safe and effective child rearing practices over a 2 to 4 day timeframe at their premises. A combination of one on one interaction with their professional staff, with an emphasis on collaboration, group education sessions, self directing learning.

• MyTime Program which is a peer support program aimed at parents and carers of children with disabilities or chronic medical condition. It provides local support so carers can socialise and share ideas with others who understand both the rewards and the challenges of the caring role • Breastfeeding Program which is a subsidised service in Melton and Brimbank helping mothers to improve confidence in their ability to breastfeed their new baby. It comprises of home visits, education and links to other community support programs Parenting can be challenging and difficult and what may be a problem for one family may not necessarily be a problem for another. Our cultural background, the way we were brought up, society’s expectations are some of the factors that influence how we cope and respond to parenting challenges. Begin parenting with confidence and enjoy the parenting experience to its fullest with Tweddle’s support.

53 Adelaide St, Footscray Ph. 9689 1577 Fax: 96891922 Email: tweddle@tweddle.org.au 42SPVD375212F/BR/9

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nurture Maternal and Child Health Services Broadmeadows 81 Lahinch St; 9309 2643 Campbellfield 28 Waratah St; 9359 6104 Craigieburn 14 Mitford Cres; 9308 2209 20 Selwyn Ave; 9308 1464 87-91 Grand Blvd, Malcolm Creek; 9308 4947 Coolaroo 492 Barry Rd; 9309 1692 Gladstone Park 35 Taylor Drive; 9338 2090 Greenvale 26-40 Bradford Ave; 9333 2240 Meadow Fair North Lilliput St; 9309 7979 Meadow Heights Visy Cares Learning Centre, 3-13 Hudson Circuit

Meadow Heights 1; 9301 5111 Meadow Heights 2; 9301 5110 Meadow Heights 3; 9301 5109 Roxburgh Park 15 Homestead Run; 9308 9116 12-14 Bluebird Way; 9205 2727 Sunbury 35 Dobell Ave; 9744 3924 7 McEwen Drive; 9744 4769 30 Sunningdale Ave; 9744 7594 Tullamarine 27A Dawson St; 9338 5384 West Meadows Heights Village Close; 9309 8953 Department of Human Services Operates a 24-hour telephone advisory service 13 2229.

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NURTURE: A PARENTING GUIDE TO HUME

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Structures with Multiple Activities • Toddlers Area • Birthday Parties or Any Celebration • Private Room with Bowling and much more

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Held on the first and third Thursday of each month, Mums & Bubs* sessions are specially tailored for parents/guardians and their little ones. Relax and enjoy the latest blockbusters in a comfortable, child-friendly environment. Films are specially selected, sound levels are closely monitored and lights are kept dimmed. Tickets are just $9 | Children under 5 years FREE! Hoyts Broadmeadows | Broadmeadows Shopping Centre 48 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 50 Pearcedale Rd, Broadmeadows. | Ph. 9302 3900 * Excludes school holiday periods. Mums & Bubs is the first advertised session - please check session times, local guides or our website for more details.

NURTURE: A PARENTING GUIDE TO HUME